Federal
Competing Bills on National Concealed Carry Stall in Congress Despite Trump's Support
President Trump publicly endorsed national right-to-carry legislation, but passage remains uncertain as pro-gun groups and GOP lawmakers disagree over two rival bills. HR 38, the Constitutional Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act backed by the NRA and Rep. Richard Hudson, has 189 co-sponsors and passed out of the House Judiciary Committee. HR 645, the National Constitutional Carry Act introduced by Rep. Thomas Massie and favored by the National Association for Gun Rights, would eliminate permit requirements nationwide. The Senate filibuster's 60-vote threshold poses an additional obstacle to passage of either bill.
✓ REASONS TO SUPPORT
- Would allow law-abiding gun owners to carry legally across state lines without navigating inconsistent state permit rules
- Builds on existing shall-issue standards already in place in all 50 states
- Has broad support from major gun rights organizations and the White House
- Reflects the constitutional carry approach already used in 29 states
✕ REASONS TO OPPOSE
- Would override state and local concealed carry laws, reducing each state's ability to set its own standards
- The Senate filibuster requires 60 votes to advance, making passage uncertain
- Disagreement between rival pro-gun bills could prevent either from gaining enough support to pass
- Critics worry a federal permitting framework could be tightened by future administrations less friendly to gun rights
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